Jacking it up – Wilshere’s MOM performance

The plaudits were flowing last night, and rightly so, as Jack Wilshere marked his full return to international duty with a man of the match performance in England’s victory over Brazil.

Steven Gerrard and Roy Hodgson both spoke of Wilshere having that ‘special something’ and the ITV pundits were only to happy to talk up England’s Next Great Hope (Trademark Registered).

The thing is, though, with Wilshere all of this hype is fully justified. I followed Wilshere’s progress closely since he returned from injury and it is a credit to the player himself that he has been able to return to such good form so quickly after his lengthy injury lay off.

But what is this ‘special something’ that everybody correctly observes that Jack possesses? Firstly, his sheer will and determination is something that you do not get with every Premier League footballer.

Wilshere never gives up the cause and this is evident in his play (because Arsenal have been trailing so many games this season!). The will to win and do everything possible to help his team is a trait which sets Jack apart from the others.

His calmness and technical superiority helps, also, as he is not only able to command a midfield with his passing but Wilshere is able to drive forward, too, and put defenders on the back foot.

Due to his build and height, Wilshere has a low centre of gravity which allows him to drive past opponents with a dip of the shoulder and find space in crowded areas.

It is quite apparent, too, that Wilshere is a born leader and that aren’t many that would bet against the young man one day becoming captain of both club and country. Wilshere has a temper but it is that fire in his belly which gives him no fear as he has shown numerous times that he won’t stand down when challenged, no matter who the opponent is.

I went to Arsenal’s FA Cup replay against Swansea and Wilshere carried the team with an outstanding performance, scoring the winning goal late into the game. The passion and desire that he displayed, and please excuse the cliche, is something you simply cannot teach.

And the icing on the cake? He is only 21-years-old and improves with each passing game.

The future is bright for young Jack and it appears that we have a real contender for England’s Next Great Hope.